THE Brunei History Association (PESEBAR) elected its executive committee members for the term 2018-2019 during its 7th General Meeting at Jawatan Dalam Hall of Brunei History Centre in the capital last Sunday.

Since its formation in 1983, PESEBAR has been actively organising several activities to promote national history among the public including holding seminars and publishing books. The latest book released by the association is titled ‘Kegemilangan Pemerintahan: Kumpulan Art…

JANUARY 18, 1958 – His Highness the Sultan explained the difference between a British Protectorate and a British Crown Colony to the people of Labu during a special visit he made there last Sunday.

“A British Colony,” said His Highness, “is a country which is controlled one hundred per cent by the British Officials and whose policies and laws are made by the British Government.

“Brunei is NOT a British Colony,” emphasised the Sultan. This country is your own country and I am your own Sultan and as such I am responsible for the country’s policies which concern the welfare and prosperity of the State.

“Those who assist with the administration of the country are my officials who are mostly local born. There are also British officials seconded from Sarawak and other places who, before being employed in Brunei, must obtain my sanction and the approval of the State Council and also the recommendation of the Public Service Committee.

The appointment of two new Deputy Permanent Secretaries at the Ministry of Health were announced last night. The list of Permanent Secretaries and Deputy Permanent Secretaries in the Brunei Government as of 6 January 2018 is as follows:

HIS Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented for the amendment of the Act and Regulations for Pension and Allowance for People with Different Abilities (OKU), with effect from January 1, 2018.

In the New Year titah for 2018 last night, His Majesty said, “We are aware that every individual has different capabilities and advantages. In this context, regarding the welfare of People with Different Abilities. I have consented for the amendment of the Act and Regulations for Pension and Allowance for People with Different Abilities.

“Through this amendment, OKU allowances will also be distributed to eligible recipients aged below 15 at certain rates, and this amendment will take effect starting January 1, 2018.